8 Best Travel Backpack for Petite Women

Ladies, let’s talk about the struggle of finding a best travel backpack for petite women that actually fits! I know the pain of trying on backpacks that are seemingly designed for giants.

You know the drill: the shoulder straps are too long, the hip belt rides up around your waist, and the overall fit is just plain awkward. It’s like wearing a toddler’s backpack to a job interview – not a good look.

But here’s the thing: when it comes to travel, choosing the right backpack is crucial. You don’t want to be lugging around a backpack that’s too big and heavy for you, especially if you’re planning to do a lot of walking or hiking.

And if the backpack doesn’t fit properly, it can put unnecessary strain on your back and shoulders, leading to discomfort or even injury.

So, what’s a petite gal to do? Fear not, my fellow fun-sized friends, because I’ve done the research and found the 8 best travel backpack for petite women.

These backpacks are designed with your height and frame in mind, so you can strut your stuff without looking like a turtle with a shell that’s way too big.

Without further ado, let’s take a look at the criteria first to select the best travel backpack for petite women!

Criteria to select the best travel backpack for petite women

To select the best travel backpack for petite women, we considered several key factors that are important for comfortable and convenient travel. Here are the criteria we used to evaluate each backpack on our list:

1- Size and Capacity

The size and capacity of a travel backpack an essential criterion when selecting the best travel backpack for petite women. Petite women should look for backpacks that are smaller in size but still have enough space to carry all their necessary items.

The capacity of the backpack should be around 20-40 liters, which is suitable for most short and long trips. Backpacks that are too big or too small can cause discomfort and affect your overall travel experience.

It’s important to note that the size and capacity of the backpack may vary based on the duration and type of trip. For shorter trips, a smaller backpack with a capacity of 20-30 liters may be sufficient, while for longer trips, a backpack with a capacity of 30-40 liters may be more appropriate.

It’s also important to consider the mode of transportation and how much weight you can comfortably carry when selecting the size and capacity of your backpack.

2- Comfort and Fit

A backpack that doesn’t fit well can cause discomfort and strain on your back and shoulders, which can quickly ruin your travel experience. Therefore, it’s crucial to choose a backpack that fits your body well and is comfortable to wear for extended periods.

Look for backpacks with adjustable straps, padded shoulder straps, and a hip belt, as these features help distribute the weight of the backpack evenly and reduce strain on your back.

In addition to adjustable straps, it’s also essential to choose a best travel backpack for petite women with a size and shape that suits your body type. Women’s backpacks are designed with a shorter torso length, narrower shoulder straps, and a more contoured hip belt to fit the female body better.

Some backpacks also have adjustable suspension systems that allow you to customize the fit according to your body type.

3- Durability and Material:

The durability and material of a travel backpack are essential criteria when selecting a best travel backpack for petite women. Travel backpacks are exposed to a lot of wear and tear, so it’s essential to choose a backpack that is made of high-quality materials and is durable.

Backpacks made of materials such as nylon, polyester, or ripstop are sturdy and long-lasting. Look for backpacks with reinforced seams and zippers, as these are often the first areas to wear out.

The material of the backpack also affects its weight. Lighter materials like ripstop nylon are more lightweight but may not be as durable as heavier materials like ballistic nylon. It’s important to balance the weight and durability of the backpack when selecting the material.

Also, consider the weather conditions and the type of activities you’ll be doing when selecting the material. For instance, a waterproof backpack may be more appropriate for outdoor activities in wet weather.

4- Organization and Accessibility

A best women’s backpack for travel carry-on should have multiple compartments and pockets for better organization of your belongings. This makes it easier to access your essentials without having to rummage through the entire backpack.

Look for backpacks with easy-to-access compartments, such as a front-loading or top-loading feature, and those with quick access pockets for frequently used items like water bottles or phones.

Additionally, consider the type and size of compartments that are important to you. For instance, if you plan to carry a laptop, look for a backpack with a dedicated laptop compartment.

If you plan to carry a lot of clothes, look for a backpack with a main compartment that can be opened like a suitcase for easier packing and unpacking. The organization and accessibility of the backpack can significantly impact your travel experience.

5- Style and Design

While functionality is the most important factor, style and design are also essential when choosing a best travel backpack for petite women. Fashionable travel backpacks come in a variety of colors and designs, and it’s important to choose one that reflects your personal style and preferences.

The right backpack should not only function well but also make you feel confident and comfortable while wearing it.

There are a few things to consider when selecting the style and design of your backpack. First, consider the type of trip you’re going on and the activities you plan to do.

If you’re going on a hiking trip, you may prefer a more rugged and sporty design. On the other hand, if you’re going on a city break, you may prefer a more stylish and sleek design.

Another important factor to consider is the type of material and color of the backpack. Darker colors are less likely to show dirt and wear, while brighter colors and patterns can help you stand out and make your backpack easier to spot in a crowd.

Some backpacks also have a variety of customization options, such as detachable patches or reversible designs, allowing you to change up the look of your backpack.

Ultimately, the style and design of the backpack should reflect your personality and travel needs. A well-designed backpack that complements your style can enhance your travel experience and make you feel confident and comfortable on your adventures.

Best Travel Backpack for petite women

Traveling is one of life’s greatest pleasures, but it can also be challenging, especially when you have to lug around a heavy, uncomfortable backpack. As a petite woman, finding the right backpack for your travels can be even more difficult, as most backpacks are designed for larger frames.

However, the good news is that there are backpacks out there that are specifically tailored to the needs of petite women.

In this article, we’ve rounded up the 8 best travel backpack for petite women, based on factors such as size, weight, comfort, durability, and organization. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a backpacking adventure, these backpacks are sure to make your travels more comfortable and enjoyable.

So without further ado, let’s dive into the list and find the perfect travel backpack for women’s carry-on!

1. Osprey Tempest 9 -Best Travel Backpack for Petite Women

The Osprey Tempest 9 is a panel-loading day-hiking and biking pack designed specifically for women.

It features a breathable and close-to-body AirScape back panel, continuous-wrap harness, and hipbelt that move with you, ensuring a comfortable and stable fit.

The pack has dual-zippered panel access to the main compartment, an internal zippered mesh pocket with a key clip, and a top panel zippered slash pocket.

It also has a tuck-away ice ax attachment with a bungee tie-off and a Stow-on-the-Go trekking pole attachment.

Additionally, it has a LidLock bike helmet attachment, an external hydration reservoir sleeve, and dual-zippered fabric hip-belt pockets.

The pack is constructed with high-quality bluesign-approved recycled high-tenacity nylon with a PFC-free DWR coating making it the best lightweight backpack for travel.

Key Features

• Women-specific fit
• Breathable and close-to-body AirScape back panel
• Continuous-wrap harness and hipbelt
• Dual-zippered panel access to main compartment
• Internal hydration reservoir sleeve
• Stow-on-the-Go trekking pole attachment
• Top panel zippered slash pocket
• LidLock bike helmet attachment
• Dual-zippered fabric hipbelt pockets
• Tuck-away ice ax attachment with bungee tie-off

Pros:

• Versatile and practical for a range of activities, including hiking, biking, and peak-bagging
• Breathable backpanel and harness for added comfort
• Multiple attachment options for gear like ice axes, trekking poles, and bike helmets
• External hydration reservoir sleeve for easy access to water
• Constructed with bluesign-approved recycled high-tenacity nylon with a PFC-free DWR coating, indicating a commitment to sustainability

Cons:

• May not be large enough for longer hikes or multi-day trips
• Limited organizational pockets compared to larger packs
• No rain cover included

2. Gregory Jade 28 -Best Travel Backpack for Petite Women

The Gregory Jade backpack is designed for women and features a body-hugging, customizable suspension that flexes with the body’s natural movement on the trail.

The backpack is built with the FreeFloat suspension, which is a combination of dynamic fit, lightweight features, and streamlined silhouette that delivers a balanced and agile carry.

The backpack provides easy access to on-the-go water bottles, full body U-zip panel access, and Open Air moisture-wicking ventilation, making it comfortable and convenient for any adventure.

Key Features

• FreeFloat ventilated suspension with dynamic flex panels.
• Front U-Zip opening for easy main compartment access.
• Dual layer bottom panel for added durability.
• Mesh ventilation for cooling.
• Body-hugging hipbelts for comfort.
• U-Zip storage for complete pack access.
• Reservoir compatible hydration sleeve.

Pros:

• The FreeFloat suspension system provides a balanced and agile carry, making it comfortable for long hikes.
• The front U-Zip opening provides easy access to the main compartment without removing the top pocket.
• The backpack is designed specifically for women, with a body-hugging suspension system that flexes with the body’s natural movements.
• The backpack has ample storage space with extra large hipbelt pockets and a hydration sleeve.
• The backpack is durable with a dual layer bottom panel.

Cons:

• The backpack does not include a hydration reservoir.
• The front U-Zip opening may not be as secure as a traditional top-loading backpack, which may be a concern for some users.

3. Swift 16 H2O -Best Travel Backpack for Petite Women

The Swift H20 is a women’s-specific hydration backpack designed to keep you organized and hydrated on the trail. It comes with a 3D Hydro reservoir that has a patented 3D molded design, which allows it to function like a reservoir but dry like a water bottle.

The reservoir is included and fits into a dedicated zippered compartment, making it easy to access and refill on the go.

The Swift H20 also features an inline hose quick-disconnect coupling, which makes it easy to refill the reservoir without having to unthread the hose from the shoulder harness.

Additionally, it has a top zippered quick access pocket with a key clip, providing convenient storage for your small essentials.

Overall, the Swift H20 is a comfortable, organized, and convenient backpack that is ideal for day hikes and outdoor activities.

Key Features

• 3D Reservoir Included
• Quick Disconnect Hose
• Multi-functional Organization
• 3D Foam Backpanel
• Side Zippered Pocket
• Reservoir Included
• Side Mesh Bottle Pocket
• Top Zippered Quick Access Pocket
• Seamless Wrapping Shoulder Harness

Pros:

• Quick disconnect system for the inline hose coupling makes refilling the hydration reservoir much easier and faster.
• Comes with a 3D Hydro quick-drying, soft-molded reservoir with a 2-liter capacity, integrated handle, and drying hanger.
• The multi-functional organization includes exterior accessed, secured zippered pocketing, and a dedicated hydration compartment that doubles as a smaller laptop or tablet sleeve.
• The 3D foam backpanel provides space for airflow, ensuring comfort even when wearing the pack for extended periods.
• The side zippered pocket and side mesh bottle pocket offer easy access to items on the trail, while the top zippered quick access pocket with key clip provides convenient storage for small essentials.

Cons:

• The shoulder straps could use more padding for added comfort, especially when carrying heavier loads.
• The side pockets may not be big enough to hold larger water bottles or other items.

4. Osprey Mira 22 -Best Travel Backpack for Petite Women

The Osprey Mira 22 Hydration Pack is a deluxe day-hiking pack designed specifically for women. Its highly ventilated and adjustable AirSpeed Suspension system ensures a comfortable carry, while the adjustable harness and sternum strap ensure a personalized fit.

The Mira 22 is versatile and suitable for a variety of outdoor activities, from bird watching to trekking up Kilimanjaro.

It comes with an integrated and removable raincover, ensuring that you are prepared for any weather conditions.

The pack also features Stow-On-The-Go trekking pole attachment, allowing you to quickly attach and carry your poles while on the move.

Other useful features include ice tool loops with bungee tie-offs and dual upper and lower compression straps.

Key Features

1. Adjustable AirSpeed Suspension
2. Dedicated hydration compartment
3. Front Panel Stretch Mesh Pocket
4. Integrated and removable raincover
5. Two Zippered Hipbelt Pockets
6. Scratch-Free Zippered Pocket
7. Stow-On-The-Go Trekking Pole Attachment

Pros:

• Versatile backpack with a capacity of 22 liters.
• Women’s-specific sizing and fit for personalized comfort
• Highly ventilated AirSpeed Suspension system for a comfortable carry
• Dedicated hydration compartment with included 2.5L Osprey Hydraulics LT reservoir
• Multiple pockets, including a scratch-free zippered pocket and two zippered hipbelt pockets for convenient storage
• Integrated and removable raincover for all-weather use
• Stow-On-The-Go trekking pole attachment for easy carrying of trekking poles

Cons:

• The pack does not come with a hydration tube clip to hold the drinking tube in place, which may lead to some bouncing or discomfort during use
• Some users have reported the zippers as being less durable.

5. Osprey Sirrus 24 -Best Travel Backpack for Petite Women

The Osprey Sirrus 24 Day Hiking Pack is a women’s specific fit backpack designed for day hikes with its adjustable torso lengths and panel loading convenience.

It provides a comfortable fit and superior ventilation with its Airspeed Suspension that has a tensioned mesh backpanel, and its fine-tuned customization fit allows for variations in torso length.

The Sirrus 24 also comes with an integrated raincover to protect your gear and has smartly organized pockets for easy access to your equipment.

Key Features

• Adjustable torso length for improved fit and comfort
• Stow-On-The-Go trekking pole attachment system
• Integrated and removable raincover
• Two zippered hipbelt pockets for easy access to essentials
• Internal hydration sleeve for easy access to water
• Airspeed suspension for comfortable carrying
• Top panel zippered stash pocket for small items
• Front panel vertical center zippered pocket for maps or gloves
• Ice tool loop for carrying proper tools

Pros:

• Large capacity of 24 liters.
• Comfortable and adjustable fit with Airspeed suspension
• Smart organization pockets for easy access to essentials
• Integrated raincover to protect gear in wet weather
• Stow-on-the-Go trekking pole attachment for convenience
• Internal hydration sleeve for easy access to water

Cons:

• The hip-belt may feel heavy for some users, especially if the pack is fully loaded.
• The hip-belt padding may not be sufficient for users who require extra comfort during longer hikes or with heavier loads.

6. Gregory Maya 16 -Best Travel Backpack for Petite Women

This lightweight pack is designed to carry all your essentials in a body-hugging, comfortable design that moves with you on the trails. With features like a BioSync dynamic suspension, adjustable torso length, and a women’s specific body-hugging hipbelt, you’ll enjoy a customized fit that’s as comfortable as it is functional.

Plus, the SpeedClip hydration hanger and dual side stretch mesh pockets ensure that you stay hydrated throughout your journey, without having to slow down or fumble with water bottles.

The Maya 16 also features convenient pockets for storing your sunglasses, valuables, and trekking poles.

And with its durable construction and dual layer bottom panel, you can rest assured that this backpack will withstand the toughest terrain and weather conditions.

So whether you’re hitting the trails for a quick day hike or a longer excursion, the Gregory Maya 16 has everything you need to stay comfortable, hydrated, and organized.

Key Features

• BioSync dynamic suspension with flexible tendons.
• Dedicated hydration pocket with SpeedClip hanger.
• Top zippered pocket having soft touch liner.
• Dual side and front stretch mesh pockets.
• Trekking pole/tool attachment with bungee closure.

Pros:

• Adjustable torso length and hipbelt for personalized fit
• Multiple pockets and attachment points for organization and gear storage
• Custom comfort-grip molded zipper pulls and webbing keepers.
• Available in Plus Size with extended straps for larger body shapes.

Cons:

• Reservoir not included with hydration system
• May not be suitable for longer trips.

7. Osprey Fairview 40 -Best Travel Backpack for Petite Women

The Osprey Fairview 40 is the ultimate travel companion for women on the go. Whether you’re exploring a new city or embarking on an adventure in the wilderness, this pack offers comfort and functionality.

Its LightWire frame suspension system transfers the load from the harness to the hipbelt, while the mesh backpanel provides excellent ventilation.

The pack’s entire suspension system can be stowed away under a zippered panel, making it easy to transport.

With lockable sliders on the main compartment zipper, dual front compression straps, and multiple mesh pockets, you can rest assured that your gear will stay organized and secure.

The pack also features a heat-embossed scratch-free slash pocket and padded top and side handles for added convenience.

Despite its lightweight and streamlined design, the Fairview 40 offers plenty of travel-focused features, including a laptop and tablet sleeve that can be secured in a lockable compartment making it the best travel backpack for petite female

The pack’s compact size ensures carry-on compliance on most flights, making it the perfect choice for travelers. And with Osprey’s All Mighty Guarantee, you can trust that the Fairview 40 will last for many adventures to come.

Key Features

• Large panel zip access to main compartment
• Lockable sliders on main compartment zipper
• Dual front compression straps and mesh pockets
• Heat-embossed scratch-free zippered slash pocket
• Padded top and side handles
• Stowaway backpanel, harness and hipbelt with zippered rear flap for protection
• Laptop and tablet sleeve secure in lockable compartment
• Shoulder strap included

Pros:

• Lightweight and streamlined design
• Stowaway suspension system for easy transport
• Lockable zippers for added security
• Padded handles for comfortable carrying
• Laptop and tablet sleeve for added convenience

Cons:

• No ventilation on the hipbelt
• The stowaway straps can be difficult to reattach after use.

8. Deuter Speed Lite -Best Travel Backpack for Petite Women

The Deuter Speed Lite 23L is a lightweight and sustainable best travel backpack for petite women, perfect for fast-paced hiking and trail running.

Its Lite back system, vest-style perforated shoulder straps, and precision-adjustable sternum strap make it comfortable to wear for extended periods, while the side compression straps reduce load wobble and allow for a full range of movement.

In addition to its performance features, the Deuter Speed Lite 23L is also PFC-free, meaning it is free of per- and polyfluorinated chemicals that can harm the environment and human health.

Instead, the backpack features DWR (Durable Water Repellency) impregnation that is harmless to health and the environment.

This eco-friendly design is perfect for adventurers who want to reduce their environmental impact while enjoying the great outdoors.

Key Features

• Lite back system for lightweight and sustainable design
• Vest-style, perforated shoulder straps for a comfortable fit
• Side compression straps to reduce load wobble and enable full range of movement
• Pocket on shoulder straps for easy access to essentials
• Available in SL Women’s Fit version for a better fit for women’s anatomy
• PFC-free for environmentally friendly design

Pros:

• Lightweight and comfortable for fast-paced hiking and trail running
• Sustainable design with PFC-free materials
• Women’s specific fit options are available
• Side compression straps provide stability and freedom of movement
• Shoulder strap pocket for easy access to essentials

Cons:

• Minimal padding may not provide enough support for heavier loads or longer periods of wear.
• The limited capacity of 23 liters.

Conclusion

In conclusion, selecting the right backpack is crucial for a comfortable and enjoyable travel experience, especially for petite women. From the 8 backpacks we’ve reviewed, it’s evident that each one has its unique features and advantages.

However, choosing the best backpack for you depends on the nature and duration of your trip, the activities you’ll be engaging in, and your personal preferences.

If you’re planning a longer trip, the Osprey Fairview 40 may be the best option, while for a shorter trip, the Osprey Tempest 9 or Deuter Speed Lite 23L may be more appropriate.

For a day hike, you could opt for the Swift 16 H2O or Gregory Maya 16, which are smaller and more lightweight. The Osprey Mira 22 and Osprey Sirrus 24 are also great options for a versatile backpack that can accommodate both short and long trips.

Ultimately, selecting the best travel backpack for petite women comes down to finding a balance between capacity, weight, comfort, and durability.

By taking into account the criteria for selection and the pros and cons of each backpack, you’ll be able to choose the one that’s best suited for your needs. So, invest in the right backpack and enjoy your travels without any discomfort or inconvenience.

If you’re a travel lover and want to plan a road trip then learn more about how to plan the best road trip in USA!